Go douglas 2015

go douglas! celebrating 2015

Douglas - we are proud to support you At the end of our second full year of operations we are proud that Douglas Shire Council has continued to punch above its weight, meeting milestones and achieving targets worthy of larger and long-established Councils. 2015 has been a year of consolidation and our officers have met the challenges inherent in the complicated business of local government in their stride.

Across Council there is a high level of enthusiasm and a desire for Douglas to “do well” because our 150 staff are deeply committed to the community in which they live and work.

It is time now to take a breath and celebrate our successes. Our strong end of year financial position exceeded all expectations, indicating we are well on the way to achieving Council’s goal of financial sustainability. We have completed 95 per cent or $22.5 million of works to restore essential assets after monsoonal flooding and tropical cyclones Ita and Nathan, with more than $4 million going directly to the purchase of goods and services in the local area. This year we have implemented the largest capital works program ever undertaken across the Shire.

Council staff have delivered numerous library and community programs, and community organisations across all sectors have been supported with Council funding and in-kind assistance. More than $700,000 has been provided to support tourism and major events, attracting significant visitation and revenue into the Shire. Council’s inaugural business forum celebrated the entrepreneurial successes of our local businesses and delivered an inspiring platform for economic development in the near future.

We have strengthened our partnerships across government, business 2

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

and community, receiving the 2015 LGMA award for Excellence in Local Government for the Women in Local Government category, and have participated in a range of state-initiated forums. We have worked with our neighbouring Councils, sharing information, opportunities and learnings.

We have collaborated with Yalanji artists to create stunning artwork for the Daintree Ferry and corporate documentation, and with our young artists to bring new life to our skate parks. Our teams are upgrading our public spaces with new gardens, improved streetscapes, contemporary tourist information and welcome signage.

Together we thank our Mayor and Councillors again for their vision and guidance, the clarity of their direction and their support for staff. The partnership between Council and its administration is critical to the success of any Council, and we appreciate the intelligent and considered approach adopted by Councillors in addressing the many and diverse issues that we deal with.

I wish to particularly thank the teams that work behind the scenes as the backbone of Council – the quiet achievers who ensure the ongoing community sustainability of Douglas by delivering our water and sewerage services, maintaining our roads, property, fleet, assets and amenities, our corporate systems and human resources; by providing frontline, development and regulatory services, and our communication, finance, information technology, business and procurement services.

It is a pleasure to provide Council and the community with this interactive snapshot of Douglas in its second year.

Linda Cardew Chief Executive Officer

January Get Ready Douglas campaign One component of the 2014-15 Get Ready Douglas disaster resilience campaign was a wallet-card USB available for residents to upload their important documents and keep with them in case of the need to evacuate.

The wallet cards are preloaded with storm surge maps and preparation checklists and are printed with a list of emergency contacts on one side and documents such as copies of birth certificates and insurance papers you should upload on the other.

Click on the card to go to Council’s Disaster & Emergency Information

Wonga Beach Aerosol Art Workshop Stage 1 of the Skate Park Street Art Aerosol Art workshops was conducted between 12-16 January at the Wonga Beach Skate Park.

Aussie Recycle Program

Council has partnered with the Aussie Recycle Program to prevent mobile phones, tablets, iPads and their accessories from ending up as landfill.

Recycle stations are available at Council’s Mossman Administration Building and Mossman Library.

Through a Safer Queensland grant, GraffitiSTOP funding and a Council contribution, Council was able to engage an aerosol artist to work with local youth to design and paint aerosol art murals on areas of youth public space and potential antisocial behaviour, including skate parks in Wonga Beach, Mossman and Port Douglas, to mentor young people to build community connections and responsibility towards public spaces.

There was a huge turn-out of local young people and parents - between 10 – 25 at any one time throughout the week and positive feedback from participants and parents.

The Mossman Skate Park Aerosol Art workshop was held in the July school holidays and the Port Douglas workshop held in the September school holidays.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the Skate Park Aerosol Art workshops GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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Cape Tribulation Playground After the project had been initially raised several years ago, Douglas Council made the installation of a new playground at Cape Tribulation a priority.

Cape Tribulation is home to many young families and although they are lucky enough to live in the heart of the rainforest there are limited recreational facilities available for children.

After negotiations with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service regarding land tenure issues proved arduous, Council chose to locate the new playground on a portion of road reserve it controlled.

Council worked with the local community on the design and equipment of the $20,000 playground which was officially opened in January 2015.

Council plans to install a shade sail over the playground as part of the 2015-16 Capital Works budget.

Unofficially known as “Wenden’s Wonderland”, it is a tribute to Cape Trib mum Michelle Wenden who lobbied for the playground for several years.

Holiday fun at Mossman Library From the very beginning 2015 promised to be a busy year for Douglas Shire Libraries.

With school holidays in full swing there was a lot on offer for younger library members. School holiday activities were well attended and children were also given the opportunity to become members of the SLQ Summer Reading Club.

A continuation of our successful partnership with Birch, Carroll & Coyle and Events Cinemas saw entries pouring in for a colouring in competition to win free tickets to the movie Night at the Museum 3.

But the main event of the month was the introduction of Lego and K’Nex for young builders. The Library invested in a few Lego kits and a giant K’Nex set with the idea that children from the age of seven upwards could come along on Thursday afternoons and get together to develop their building and problem-solving skills. The project is ongoing and has proved to be very popular.

Boaties all aboard for extreme weather warnings Council’s Regulatory Services team developed a procedure to enable extreme weather warnings to be sent by text to Port Douglas Pile Mooring occupants.

All Port Douglas Pile Mooring occupants get the reviewed “Maritime Cyclone Contingency Plan for Port Douglas Boat Harbour” at the beginning of each cyclone season. If an extreme weather event is imminent, Council uses a Telstra service to text weather warnings and instructions during extreme weather events.

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Australia Day Awards & Citizenship Ceremony Mayor Julia Leu proudly announced foster parent Natasha Peters as the 2015 Douglas Shire Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards & Citizenship Ceremony held at the Port Douglas Community Hall on January 26.

The Port Douglas Crocs AFL Club was honoured with a Civic Recognition of Sporting Achievements Award for outstanding success in winning the 2014 Cairns AFL Premiership for the Seniors, Reserves and Under-17s teams. This was the culmination of more than 25 years of blood, sweat and tears for a dedicated group of supporters and a committed collective of young men.

Crocs President Andy Smith

Natasha cares for local children in the Mossman, Wonga Beach, Cooya Beach and other surrounding areas.

Natasha is single with no children of her own but has cared for over 33 indigenous children over the past 10 years, dedicating her life to helping young children get a better start in life.

Citizen of the Year Natasha Peters

Teenagers Mitchell Bohm, Michael McKeown, Brett McKeown and Jake Mcilhagga were also presented with a Civic Recognition of Courage and Mateship Award. These four young men displayed courage and strength beyond their years in the immediate aftermath of the tragic shark attack on their mate Daniel Smith last December in an attempt to save his life.

Mitchell Bohm, Jake Mcilhagga, Michael, McKeown and Brett McKeown Douglas Shire Seniors Inc secretary Ann Booth was honoured as the 2015 Douglas Shire Volunteer of the Year for her substantial contribution to the community, keeping all members informed of activities, which include regular day bus trips to Cairns plus overnight trips to other locations.

Ann also helps organise the Seniors Week and Christmas luncheon for seniors as well as weekly events including indoor bowls, aqua-aerobics, bingo, senior fitness and card games.

Volunteer of the Year Ann Booth

It was also a privilege to welcome 11 new Australian citizens to the Douglas Shire at the Citizenship Ceremony. Our new citizens originate from Thailand, the UK, the Czech Republic, the Republic of Ireland, Mexico, Italy and the Ukraine.

Our new Australian citizens

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February Happy hound reunited with owner ... in Brisbane A dog impounded by Council and found to have a microchip was reunited with its owners in Brisbane after having been “missing”, assumed stolen, for approximately 18 months.

“BJ” was flown home by its very excited owners after spending three nights in the Council pound.

Flood mitigation works As part of flood mitigation works, Council installed an automatic flood gauge at Daintree Village to provide an accurate picture of flooding situations for the community and those downstream.

Connolly Causeway in Mowbray was also completed, upgraded to a concrete causeway.

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Staff upskill for disaster management Disaster management preparations continued with an emphasis being placed on the upskilling of staff with a qualification or skills to assist in disaster management or provide increased resilience in Douglas communities.

Staff have completed training in four-wheel-drive skills, first aid, CPR, Cyclone Storm Tide Shelter (CSTS) management and acting as a fire warden.

Further training over the next two months included level 1 and 2 chainsaw, traffic management, community disaster intelligence, and various preparation and operational skills for the successful activation and operation of the CSTS and the Local Disaster Coordination Centre (LDCC).

Through February and March a number of exercises were also held to test the current Disaster Plan. These exercises involved the activation of the CSTS and the LDCC and included a cyclone scenario.

As part of Council’s Disaster Resilience preparations, virtually all staff have been trained in a new skill to assist in the event of a cyclone or major natural disaster.

Work Health & Safety supervisor training All staff supervisors attended Mandatory Work Health & Safety Manager/Supervisor training in early February.

This training was facilitated by John Egan from Local Government Workcare.

The WH&S committee met in February to plan for the year ahead.

Creative community space at Mossman Library Disaster Resilience photo exhibition One of the biggest impediments to disaster preparedness is the myth that “it could never happen here”. This is especially pertinent in Douglas where communities are accustomed to tropical weather with regular flooding and road closures.

When community members have an awareness of their history they are able to: • recognise local hazards • learn from past community experiences • encourage a sense of local identity; fostering cooperation The Extreme Weather photo competition and exhibition was launched with a public request for photos taken of images relating to weather events.

The Library is a welcoming, creative community space and supports community organisations such as Douglas Shire Seniors which had a display encouraging Seniors to be more active.

There was also a display for Library Lovers Day and the first computer basics course of the year was run.

Introduction to computers includes three separate sessions, Computer Basics, Introduction to Email and Introduction to the Internet.

The photos were displayed in the Council Chambers foyer throughout cyclone season along with a display Home Emergency Kit and information on disaster preparation.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the Disaster Resilience Photo Exhibition GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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AT A GLANCE ...

• The Waste Services team initiated a recycling program for refrigerant and LPG gas.

• e-services went live for internet payments for rates, water and animal registrations.

• Council’s Finance team delivered a presentation to the Queensland Treasury Corporation Credit Review on Council’s corporate objectives, operational activities and forward financial planning.

• A tidy up and improvement for signage at the Daintree Bus Shelter was completed by Building Services to help improve the presentation of advertising for local businesses and for the distribution of Council information.

• The sewer relining and manhole projects were completed by Wastewater crews. A total of 1550 metres of 225mm and 150mm sewers were relined in Sorrento Crescent, Seabrook Avenue, Solander Boulevard, Wharf Street (Port Douglas) and in Pringle Street, Alchera Drive, Johnston Road (Mossman). Six sewer pump stations were successfully upgraded.

• An audit of portable advertising and goods on footpaths was undertaken

by Regulatory Services. Businesses with unregistered items were written to and sent the appropriate forms.

• Netball courts at the Port Douglas Sports Complex were resurfaced.

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March Regional Arts Development Fund The Round 1 Regional Arts Development Fund successful applicants were presented with their certificates by Mayor Julia Leu. The Round 1 RADF recipients were: Douglas Arts Base Studio Gallery ($1700) – Perfecting Pastels – a workshop engaging pastel artist Louise Derry to hold a workshop at DAB in 2015.

Mossman Gorge Centre ($2700) – The Artist’s Scarf – Kuku Yalanji Style – a fourday workshop with Linda Jackson to produce designs for textiles and fashion.

Cyclone Nathan circles The Local Disaster Coordination Centre was activated in mid-March when Tropical Cyclone Nathan threatened to wreak havoc on the Douglas Shire with winds of up to 250km/h.

Council distributed thousands of sandbags in preparation for a storm surge or flooding but thankfully Cyclone Nathan continued on a northerly track and crossed the coastline north of Cape Flattery, causing little damage in the Douglas Shire.

Diana Abiad and Karen Shuan ($1750) – Continuing Traditions – a project supporting traditional owner Karen Shuan to conceptualise and transcribe her stories which build on previous works by her mother Judy Shuan.

Bill Wilkie ($2700) – Low Isles – Shining a Light on the Douglas Shire – researching and writing a book proposal telling the story of Low Isles.

Disaster Resilience photo exhibition As a proud Reef Guardian Council, Douglas Shire Council participated in a project with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority to illustrate the type of environmental initiatives Reef Guardian Councils are involved in.

Douglas Shire Council’s Reef Guardian initiatives encompass all work areas and demonstrate Council’s commitment to positive environmental outcomes.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of Council’s Reef Guardian initiatives GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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Waste Services

Premier pays a visit

• Groundwater sampling and analysis was undertaken around Killaloe and Newell Beach Landfills;

Mayor Julia Leu and Premier Palaszczuk met on the 31 March at Council’s Mossman Administration Building to discuss opportunities for Douglas.

• Leachate sampling and analysis was undertaken at Killaloe Landfill; • Approximately 5.82 tonnes of used lead acid batteries were exported from Council Transfer Stations for recycling; • Approximately 1.44 tonnes of drumMuster drums were exported from Killaloe Transfer Station for processing in March 2015; and • Free green waste disposal was offered to residents within the Douglas region at accepting Transfer Stations.

Port Douglas Open Spaces • The footpaths at Port Douglas Community Hall were revamped with new ‘Replas’ edging and fresh gravel; • Works commenced on Nautilus Street after extensive community consultation prior to clearing the road reserve of unsuitable species. The garden beds will be irrigated, mulched and planted; • The Barrier Street roundabout vegetation removal to improve traffic safety was completed. After lengthy negotiations with Department of Transport and Main Roads, the roundabout was replanted and turfed; and • A small section of Four Mile Beach foreshore area and creek was revegetated at the end of Cowie Street with native plants. These works addressed vegetation encroachment and the removal of inappropriate planting.

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The Premier also met with the community at a public meeting at the Mossman Shire Hall in the wake of Member for Cook Billy Gordon’s resignation from the Labor Party.

AT A GLANCE ...

• Construction of the Woobadda Bridge was substantially completed with the new bridge in use since late December.

• Recent capital works projects include the construction of a new footbridge over the Grant Street drain, improvements to Rex Smeal Park with the installation of pipes to transport stormwater from Wharf Street to the outlet area in Rex Smeal Park, extensions to culverts in Ironbark Road and the concrete footpath renewal in William Street.

• Council officers met with Traditional Owners to discuss the Mossman Gorge Cemetery and Council’s report on the Mossman Gorge rezoning/ subdivision.

• Trial and testing has been completed on the new Minutes & Agenda Software program. Agenda and Minute templates are now in the final stages of development with report writer training in this software to be rolled out later in the year.

• The 2014/15 Budget Review was adopted.

• The Pest Management/Natural Areas crew completed a total of 202 hours of treating declared pest weeds over an area of 3.8 hectares. The majority of time was spent treating tobacco weed and giant sensitive plant on the Daintree Coast. A total of 253 trees were planted along the Cassowary Creek bank stabilisation project. Additionally, the Woobadda Creek bridge site was revegetated with 181 endemic native plants.

• The Finance team hosted an audit planning visit from the Queensland Audit Office.

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April

Things Council’s Local Laws Officers would like you to know ...

Daintree Ferry artwork How many animals can you spot on the new Daintree ferry artwork?

Council’s Regulatory Services team launched a Facebook initiative called “Things Council’s Local Laws Officers would like you to know”.

A series of facts put together by the Local Laws Officers to debunk some myths regarding local laws and animal management and generally provide useful education information for the community.

Council was very proud to commission new artwork for the Daintree Ferry from local artists, Lenice Schonenberger, Loretta Pierce and Ronald Bamboo.

This beautiful piece of artwork depicts the animals that are found in the Daintree River and the forest surrounding it. It also shows the food sources for the Traditional Owners of the land.

New bollards for Port Douglas Open Spaces The Port Douglas Open Spaces team completed capital works projects including installing new bollards and formalising access to Teamsters Park.

New bollards were installed at Four Mile Park to restrict vehicles using the park for residential parking and to discourage illegal camping in vehicles.

Market Park also received a much-needed revamp, replacing the Koppers Logs with new ‘Replas’ bollards.

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Fairy Poppalina’s into Library The Library team was busy selecting items ready for the quarterly book exchange.

A feature of the Regional Libraries Queensland system, the book exchange ensures that new titles are rotated amongst member libraries.

Staff were also preparing for the touchdown of Fairy Poppalina. Poppalina visited and regaled young library goers and their parents with the tale of Pinkilicious.

More than 60 people attended the library for Poppalina’s stories, singing and colouring and library staff members were seen to have sprouted fairy wings.

Douglas commemorates century since Anzac landing A beautiful dawn service to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli Landing was held at the Mossman Cenotaph followed by a free community breakfast.

An estimated 2000 people turned out for the Dawn Service and around 700 people attended the free community breakfast provided by Council.

Council also provided a free community breakfast after the Cow Bay Dawn Service which was attended by around 200 people.

A further 1500-plus people witnessed the Anzac Day parade and ceremony in Port Douglas. As a special tribute, 39 students from Mossman State High School marched in the parade wearing commemorative RSL plaques representing the 39 soldiers from the Douglas Shire who were killed in World War 1.

Council also produced the book Diggers of Douglas utilizing the amazing research carried out by Douglas Shire Historical Society volunteers on more than 170 soldiers from the Douglas Shire who served during World War 1.

Click on the Diggers of Douglas image to see a video tribute to the Shire’s World War 1 soldiers

Douglas Women in Local Government leaders Council has been recognised for its leadership in local government at the Local Government Managers Association (LGMA) awards, announced as the winner of Queensland’s Women In Local Government 2015 category.

Of 152 staff, 40 per cent are women, with many of these team members working within non-traditional roles within Civil Works and Public and Natural Areas.

Staff have family-friendly flexibility with start and finish times, paid parental leave, part-time work arrangements for parents returning to the workforce, working from home and additional flexibility where required.

AT A GLANCE ...

• The Waste team repaired and upgraded the irrigation system at Killaloe Transfer Station and undertook a public place bin audit throughout the Shire.

• Council’s Mossman Nursery provided a total of 1148 native plants for Council and community landscaping and revegetation projects. Works continued on the Nautilus Street upgrade project with the planting of 474 plants. Irrigation was also installed to the garden areas of the site.

• New security cameras were installed at the Mossman Shire Hall and one overlooking the Library car park as a deterrent for vandalism.

• The Pest Management team conducted a total of 159 man hours controlling 6.7 hectares of declared weeds across the Shire, mostly Siam.

• A total of 32 feral pigs were destroyed this month as part of the Daintree Feral Pig trapping program.

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May Illegal camping strategy approved

Regulatory Services gained formal approval to implement an illegal camping strategy that included a review of regulatory signage, identifying hot spot areas, partnering with the local police and employing a new Local Laws officer.

During regular patrols of Port Douglas numerous people have commented on the positive effect the patrols are having on camping numbers.

Council will investigate long-term options to address illegal camping, including the consideration to establish free or low-cost camps in the Douglas Shire.

Port Douglas Carnivale Port Douglas Carnivale 2015 was a 10-day extravaganza celebrating and promoting the Douglas Shire.

Council provides $50,000 in funding annually as the major sponsor of Carnivale. Major events included the Longest Lunch, Macrossan Street Parade, Four Mile Beach Day and the Seafood Extravaganza.

Carnivale 2015 also generated millions of dollars in publicity for the Douglas Shire.

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Access Douglas Directory & Missed Business resource Douglas Shire Council launched two initiatives – the Access Douglas Directory and Missed Business – that aim to support locals and visitors to our region who have disabilities.

The Access Douglas Directory is an online tool available on Council’s website which supports residents who may be living with a disability or visitors to our region in finding appropriate businesses, services and organisations in the Douglas region to meet their everyday needs.

The Missed Business resource is an online tool with practical information and advice for existing and new small businesses in helping them to be more accessible for customers who may have a disability.

People living with a disability account for one in five Australians or over 4 million people, with approximately $8 billion spent annually by people with disabilities on Australian tourism accounting for 11 per cent of expenditure.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the launch of the Access Douglas Directory & Missed Business resource

18 new Australians welcomed to Douglas Shire

Cop finally receives war medals

The Douglas Shire welcomed 18 new Australian citizens to the community at the Mossman Shire Hall on 21 May.

Council staff helped organisers arrange the ceremony for Mossman’s John “Cop” Hingley to receive his World War 2 medals ... 70 years after they were due to him.

Our 18 new citizens came from diverse backgrounds including England, the Philippines, New Zealand, the Republic of Ireland, Hungary, Italy, India, Indonesia, Scotland, Thailand, Poland and Canada.

It was a hugely emotional service as more than 200 people witnessed the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer David Ashley, present the Pacific Star, Defence Medal and War Medal on Cop’s 101st birthday.

An administrative error after the war prevented Cop from ever receiving his medals, which were finally awarded after a campaign by friends Jeanette and Don Gray.

I just want to live long enough so I can finally march on Anzac Day with my medals Cop Hingley

Strategic thinking from Governance team The Governance team went to the Mossman Shire Hall for a planning day held on 4 May. This planning day was an integral part in the formation of the 2014/2015 Operational Plan for the department.

The day started with staff familiarising themselves in some team-building activities. A review of Council’s Corporate Plan took place, and an explanation of how the goals in the Corporate Plan link back to the Operational Plan and Council reporting was given.

This was an education session that triggered a lot of brainstorming on how the Governance team could contribute back to the strategic goals. These ideas were condensed into the nine Operational Plan initiatives adopted by Council.

Waste Services • Free mulch offered to residents throughout the Douglas region from participating Transfer Stations; • Exported approximately 4.79 tonnes of used lead acid batteries from Council Transfer Stations for recycling in May; • Finished wet season monitoring requirements in accordance with the Transitional Environmental Program; and • Provided waste disposal as in-kind support for Port Douglas Carnivale.

The ideas that were not included within the plan have also been noted as ongoing projects. Staff took full ownership of the process and have gained a better understanding of strategic corporate planning.

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National Sorry Day Ceremony

AT A GLANCE ...

• Staff and Yalanji Elders facilitated the removal of rubbish from under Foxton Bridge.

A National Sorry Day Commemorative Service and Flag-Raising Ceremony was held at Council’s Mossman Administration Building on 26 May. Sorry Day acknowledges the impact of the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families and all members of our Douglas communities were invited to attend the ceremony and morning tea.

Library builds links with community Links with The Gorge Gateway Centre, which has been supplying art displays for the library foyer, were strengthened when the new intake of hospitality trainees were brought to the library for a familiarisation morning.

May also marked National Simultaneous Storytime when libraries and schools around Australia tell the same story at the same time.

To celebrate, Mossman Library staff members Debbie Somersall and Deirdre Whitely performed a dramatized version of Aaron Blabey’s Brother’s Quibble. Children from Cooya Kidz attended as special guests.

Library staff also visited Mossman Primary School to celebrate Under-8s week by reading stories to some eager listeners.

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• The schedule of Fees and Charges 2015-16 was adopted.

• A scheduled Interim Audit by Queensland Audit Office, including a review of Council’s Information Technology systems and processes, was undertaken.

• The Pest Management team conducted 1003 hours controlling 12 hectares of declared weeds during May. The crews conducted their annual run for sickle-pod at Degarra and China Camp. Additionally, the team commenced a joint agency control and survey operation on Siam weed in Mossman with the assistance of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Jabalbina rangers and the Conservation Volunteers Australia Green Army Team.

• The Queensland Treasury Corporation Credit Review was finalised. An Internal Audit Review of the Rates System and Pensioner Remission Verification was completed by the Finance team.

• An audio visual upgrade for the Council Chambers was carried out including the installation of a PA system for the public.

• The Pest Management team engaged a local service provider as a trial to treat the invasive species Hiptage vine in Mossman. The trial was funded under a pest initiative grant from Terrain and the local contractor crew conducted 503 man hours on the core infestation of Butchers Hill.

June 2015-16 Annual Budget Adopted Douglas Shire Council adopted its 2015-2016 Annual Budget which included an unprecedented $19.5 million capital works program to stimulate economic development.

The capital works program was the most substantial ever for the Douglas Shire, including at that time more than $9 million for road repairs under the National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements program which is almost entirely funded by the State and Federal Governments.

There was also an investment of more than $5 million on improving water and wastewater infrastructure to provide better environmental outcomes and an emphasis on new and continuing economic development initiatives.

The budget’s modest 3.9 per cent rate rise delivered on Council’s objective to achieve financial and community sustainability and realise a balanced budget within the next four years.

Policy review process The first stage of the policy review process was to revoke 102 policies at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 26 May. These policies were revoked as they were Cairns-specific or not in line with Council’s business principles.

On 16 June Douglas Shire Council re-adopted 33 policies, which were now Douglas-specific. Through de-amalgamation, 168 policies transferred across from Cairns Regional Council.

Seventeen of these policies were already adopted by Council and as a result of the Governance review, a further eight policies were revoked with another eight to be reviewed at a later date. All Council Policies can be viewed on Council’s website.

360 years of service to the community recognised More than 360 years of service to the community has been recognised at Douglas Shire Council.

Mayor Julia Leu presented certificates to 28 Douglas Shire Council staff on June 16 in recognition of their 10, 15, 20 and 25-year career milestones.

The staff members have collectively contributed more than 360 years to Council in roles as diverse as team leaders, gangers, planning and administration officers, plant operators and labourers.

“The Douglas Shire is blessed with not just a spectacular natural environment, but a very dedicated Council team,” Mayor Leu said.

CEO Linda Cardew echoed Mayor Leu’s sentiments.

“It is a privilege to lead an organisation filled with people who are so passionate about the work they do for their communities,” Ms Cardew said.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the Staff Recognition Awards GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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Port Douglas Community Hall upgrade

Fish in the Foyer exhibition

The Port Douglas Open Spaces team upgraded the gardens at the Port Douglas Community Hall.

The Fish in the Foyer exhibition was launched during ECO Week and was a great vehicle to illustrate Council’s commitment to environmental stewardship and launch Council’s “Love Where You Live” anti-litter and illegal dumping campaign.

Mulching of the mounds and gardens has improved the appearance of the Community Hall area.

An art exhibition by David White and Jo Barstow made from rubbish combed from local beaches was designed to encourage people to think about the environmental issues implicit in waste disposal and consumerism. The exhibition was so popular it stayed in the foyer for several months.

New signage for public parks and reserves

Illegal dumping display

The Port Douglas Open Spaces team upgraded signage in public parks and reserves.

To illustrate the impacts of illegal dumping, Council dumped a display pile at Port Douglas Markets, supported with an information stall and corflutes.

An officer conducted community engagement activities at the market display to gauge community responses to the impacts of illegal dumping and encourage public assistance in reporting/stopping illegal dumping. In total, 26 market stallholders and visitors provided valuable feedback and the overwhelming majority of people were very positive about the initiative.

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Council embraces ECO Week activities Council was part of the inaugural Far North Queensland ECO Week from 29 May – 7 June.

ECO Week is the largest community-focused environmental collaboration in North Queensland, with communities from Townsville to Cooktown coming together to celebrate our unique natural environment and its role in our community wellbeing and economic prosperity.

One of Council’s ECO Week events was a Gardening with Natives presentation and workshop by Gaylene Sheather from our Mossman Nursery. Feedback from participants was very positive with several asking when Gaylene was holding the next workshop.

In total, 56 events and offers were registered for ECO Week from Townsville to Cooktown.

Agile Business Planning Workshop In June, Council provided an opportunity with the support of TheSpace for 20 participants representing existing small businesses, as well as new and emerging businesses and entrepreneurs, to explore how the Douglas region can best support start-ups and new business initiatives.

Participants were also able to develop agile business plans which focused on the principles of the commercialisation runway, how to turn business ideas into paying customers and mitigating risks for business ideas.

Feedback from all participants indicated that the workshop was very beneficial in consolidating their business ideas.

Hundreds of athletes flock to Four Mile Beach Douglas Shire Council is a major sponsor of the Cairns Adventure Festival and Cairns Ironman which were held on consecutive weekends in June.

Four Mile Beach was the stage for the finish of the three Cairns Adventure Festival events – the RRR Mountain Bike Challenge, the 5150 Coral Coast Triathlon and the Great Ocean Challenge.

The Cairns Adventure Festival events attracted more than 1000 entrants from around Australia, with many of these athletes preparing for their race in the Douglas Shire or enjoying a relaxing break here afterwards.

Port Douglas also featured as the turnaround for the cycle leg in the Cairns Ironman, regarded as one of the most spectacular cycle legs in the sport along Great Barrier Reef Drive between Cairns and Port Douglas.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the 25th running of the RRR Mountain Bike Challenge

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Community Development Program & Regional Arts Development Fund Douglas Shire Council provided more than $30,000 in funding for five local initiatives in the latest round of its Community Support Program.

The successful projects in Round 2 of the Community Support Program include: D.I.R.T (Douglas Integrated Riders and Trailbuilders) ($10,000) – to purchase tools and a lockable trailer to assist volunteers in bike track building; Mossman Port Douglas Senior Rugby League Club ($9100) – to remove and replace the rugby league scoreboard at Coronation Park in Mossman; Port Shorts Inc ($10,000) – to conduct filmmaking workshops with Mossman State High School and the Mossman Youth Centre and stage the Port Shorts Film Festival; Coral Coast Judo Club Inc ($2000) – to conduct come and try days, a scholarship program, demonstrations and club promotion; and Douglas Theatre Arts Group ($1399) – to purchase a large screen projector.

Three local art projects also received almost $9000 in funding under Round 2 of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF). The successful projects were: Pam Willis Burden - Douglas Diaries ($2800) – Arranging and conducting oral history interviews to record recent history of Douglas Shire; Alteouise DeVaughn - Voices from the Far North ($3000) – Teaching and performance of Handel’s Messiah with Tropical Queensland Oratorio Society choir; and Visnja Prtenjaca - Carnivale Community Chorus ($2970) – Singing workshops and master classes for the community to take part in a concert at Carnivale.

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Mossman Reservoir recommissioned The Mossman reservoir at the Mossman Treatment Plant was re-commissioned on 30 June after the Water and Supply Regulator was satisfied with all test results and operational procedures.

The structural pipe work modifications, roofing repairs and electrical and plumbing works were carried out by local contractors. New chlorine dosing systems were installed and are ensuring safe drinking water.

Integration to SCADA was completed with in-house training of operators on the new operational procedures. The additional 1.8 megalitres of treated water storage improves assurance in relation to water supply security and will be invaluable in times of plant shutdown due to turbidity events in the Rex Creek intake.

AT A GLANCE ...

• Groundwater sampling and analysis was undertaken around Killaloe and Newell Beach Landfills and upgrades to the hazardous storage bay at Cow Bay Transfer Station was completed by Waste Services.

• A “Responsible Dog Owner” education and enforcement program was implemented by Regulatory Services which resulted in 5.9 per cent increase in dog registrations.

• Council worked with local businesses and community groups to deliver record numbers of Council approved public place events and activities, and streamlined internal processes to reduce delays and facilitate a coordinated approach.

• Staff attended training covering a diverse range of areas, including first aid and CPR, Work Safely with Liquefied Gas, Erosion and Sediment Control, Microsoft Excel, Confined Space Entry and Breathing Apparatus.

After 12 months of study three staff members successfully completed their Certificate III in Water Operations.

• The preparation of the new Planning Scheme was advanced in accordance with the Council’s 2014/15 Operational Plan with the new Draft Planning Scheme referred for its first State Interest Check.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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July Craiglie gas chlorination building installed

The installation of the Craiglie chlorine gas chlorination building was completed on 25 July.

The module supplied by Westwater consists of a demountable-style building which is supplied as a package fully fitted out internal with chlorine gas dosing equipment and associated safety equipment such as gas leak detectors and automated chlorine gas cylinder shutoff devices.

The installation of the gas chlorine building was coordinated

by Council staff. Works including civil concrete slab design and construction, electrical and plumbing were successfully completed by local contractors.

Stage 1 of the Daintree Gateway launched Stage 1 of the Daintree Gateway was officially opened on 3 July by Mayor Julia Leu alongside the Kuku Yalanji elders and artists, local businesses and Council staff who collaboratively made it happen.

The Daintree Gateway now features new welcome signage, new indigenous artwork on the ferry, a new interpretive centre, spectacular native tropical gardens and new toilets.

This has been a fantastic collaboration between Council, Kuku Yalanji elders and artists, local businesses, community and tourism organisations and the Queensland Government which jointly funded the project.

The next stage of the Daintree Gateway being undertaken in the 2015-16 financial year includes designs for sealing the boat ramp car park, traffic flow improvements and investigating the establishment of toilets on the northern side of the Daintree River.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the launch of the Daintree Gateway 22

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

Welcome to Douglas Guide Council developed the Welcome to Douglas Guide for new residents and businesses as the ultimate guide to the Douglas Shire to community organisations, events and activities, council services and tips to make the transition to living in the best place on the planet even easier.

Click on the image to access the Welcome to Douglas Guide

Collaborative approach to Bloomfield Track The CEO Unit is involved in the Bloomfield Track project with the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) developing the e-book and Council providing the signage for the project.

A regional collaborative approach has been taken with this project with key stakeholders from Jabalbina Aboriginal Corporation, WTMA, Tourism Port Douglas Daintree, Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council and Cook Shire Council.

Council conducted a tour of the Bloomfield Track with Jabalbina and Elders to identify key sites of cultural significance and areas of interest to feature in the project.

Wi-Fi arrives at Douglas Libraries July saw the much anticipated launch of Wi-Fi at Mossman and Port Douglas Libraries.

NAIDOC Week celebrations

Visitors can now access free Wi-Fi at either branch during opening hours. Wi-Fi has already proved to be very popular and has enabled Libraries to meet customer service expectations of the 21st century.

NAIDOC Week was celebrated with an opening ceremony, street parade and a family fun day.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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Love Where You Live at Mossman Show

Click on the image to see Council actions taken since Daintree Forum #2

Council provided $15,000 in inkind support to the Mossman Show Society to help prepare for the community event.

The CEO Unit coordinated the Mossman Show Stall with officers from across Council assisting with manning the stall.

The community education campaign “Love Where You Live, Keep Douglas Clean and Green” was continued with information available to the public explaining what material can be taken to the waste stations, a waste survey and a display of student designed posters regarding waste and our environment.

Libraries buzzing with activities for all ages Mossman Library marked NAIDOC week with celebrations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island culture in the community. As part of a baby show at Mossman Gorge library staff hosted storytelling sessions and raised awareness of libraries and literacy. Library staff also joined the students of Mossman Primary School for a morning of sharing stories.

Daintree Forum #2 Approximately 35 local residents and business operators attended the second Daintree Forum which was convened by Council in Diwan on 23 July 2015.

Discussions were held generally under the following five sessions: Capital Works and Operational Initiatives completed in 2014-2015 and planned for 2015-2016; Mayoral advocacy; National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) update; Coconut Management Plan; and waste collection.

A number of other issues were raised by the community which Council has since actioned.

Dixie’s Shed saved from demolition One of the Douglas Shire’s oldest buildings was saved from demolition courtesy of a last-minute agreement between Council, the Douglas Shire Historical Society and the Department of Fisheries.

The former Customs Boathouse on Dickson’s Inlet was built around 1883, making it one of the most historically significant in the Douglas Shire.

Port Douglas Library also moved to its new home in an adjacent room at the Port Douglas Community Hall with customers now having access to three public computers with internet access.

Council was informed of the proposed imminent demolition of Dixie’s Shed in May as Fisheries wanted to build a new shed. Following the intervention of Council and Member for Cook Billy Gordon, the demolition was delayed and the removal of Dixie’s Shed to a new location negotiated.

School holiday activities during July included celebrating National Tree Day, with young library members given the opportunity to create paintings of trees on canvas.

After assessing all suitable locations, Dixie’s Shed was relocated to the site of the SES Shed at 19 Wharf St, Port Douglas.

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Spring Creek causeway upgrade

AT A GLANCE ...

The Spring Creek causeway on Mowbray River Road was upgraded to substantially improve the flood immunity for local residents.

The new causeway is approximately 1.5m above the previous causeway road level, which flooded regularly in the wet season.

BEFORE (ABOVE) AND AFTER (BELOW)

• The Port Douglas Open Spaces crews replanted gardens in Wharf St and also in front of the Port Douglas Historical Society building.

• Approximately 678.39 tonnes of scrap metal was exported from Council Transfer Stations for recycling by Waste Services.

• Council welcomed the State Government’s decision to approve the freehold application of leases at the Port Douglas marina with conditions that seek to preserve access for the community and the commercial fishing industry.

• A Tidal Works application for the placement of geofabric groynes and beach nourishment on Newell Beach was lodged by Council.

Illegal campers moved on A total of 71 illegal camper “move-ons” were undertaken

by Local Laws officers in July.

The majority of campers were located at Port Douglas. An approximate breakup of the nationality of the campers is as follows – 46 per cent European, 30 per cent Australian and 24 per cent other. Illegal camping signs for installation at key “village” entrances were delivered at Port Douglas, Cooya Beach, Newell Beach, Wonga Beach and the Daintree Ferry. Temporary “No Camping” signs were also installed in problematic areas.

Officers have further identified a “Wiki-Camps App” promoting free camping sites in Douglas Shire. Regulatory Services staff will be taking steps to address the inaccurate information being posted.

• The pedestrian footbridge in Sonata Close, Port Douglas was completed by the Civil Works team and the feedback from the local residents is positive.

•

The Pest Management crew have been busy reinstating fire break tracks on Butchers Hill which will provide access for future Hiptage control works.

This work was funded by Terrain and their ongoing support is appreciated.

The crews have conducted 813 hours on survey and control of declared weeds including 744 hours surveying and controlling 1.5 hectares of Siam Weed

• Asset Revaluation of Transport Assets and Sewerage Assets was finalised by the Finance team.

• A register to manage gates and grids was created by Regulatory Services and forwarded to Infrastructure for implementation.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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August Port Douglas Community Hub opened Council officially opened the Port Douglas Community Hub at the Port Douglas Community Hall in Mowbray St. The community hub combines the new SpacePort coworking space, the Library Kiosk and Customer Service.

Space Port is a casual co-working space that existing small businesses such as business owners on holidays as well as new and emerging local businesses and entrepreneurs can utilise as a convenient alternative to their own homes.

It includes access to wi-fi and there is a conference room with a large table, a white board and a kitchenette.

The Customer Service area provides a range of Frontline transactions without the need for customers to travel to Mossman. These transactions are of a non-cash basis,however cheque transactions and EFTPOS facilities are available.

Click on the image and come for a helicopter ride over the Daintree Rainforest with Council’s Open Spaces team as they conduct an aerial survey targeting the destructive Hiptage weed.

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Positive start for Daintree Joint Management Group The inaugural meeting of the Daintree Joint Management Group (DJMG) proved to be a positive start in securing better outcomes for residents, visitors, local businesses and the environment.

The DJMG met for the first time in August with key stakeholders represented including Douglas Shire Council, the Daintree Coast Community Council, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, the Wet Tropics Management Authority, Terrain Natural Resource Management, the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation, Tourism Port Douglas Daintree and the Daintree Marketing Cooperative.

The DJMG provides a mechanism to work together to solve common issues and make positive improvements including prioritising infrastructure needs, cassowary protection and tourism assets.

Outcomes from the first meeting include starting work on a Daintree Management Plan to cost and prioritise infrastructure needs in the Daintree and identify future aspirations and expectations for the area.

National Science Week workshop For National Science Week, Council partnered with Tangaroa Blue to present the inaugural Douglas Shire public workshop on Marine Debris Source Reduction Plans.

The day-long workshop was conducted at the Port Douglas Community Hub and resulted in the creation of six source reduction plans targeting disposable coffee cups, single use plastic shopping bags, cigarette butts, disposable water bottles, plastic bait bags and party litter, as the biggest causes of litter on our beaches and threat to birds and marine wildlife.

Port Douglas Beach Picnic Races + Taste Port Douglas Food & Wine Festival

Pop-up Story Times to celebrate Children’s Book Week Libraries celebrated “Children’s Book Week” in August. Staff presented “pop up story-times” at six different organisations throughout the Douglas Shire.

This was an ideal opportunity to promote early literacy, library services and the joy of reading to 315 children within our community.

Douglas Shire Council was the major sponsor of the inaugural Port Douglas Beach Picnic Races, providing $10,000 to organisers to help stage the event.

More than 3000 spectators lined Four Mile Beach to enjoy the event, which is again being supported by Council as the major sponsor in 2016.

Seniors Week celebrations

Council was also a major sponsor of the Taste Port Douglas Food & Wine Festival, which attracted some of Australia’s best-known chefs for a three-day culinary extravaganza.

Seniors Week was celebrated in the Douglas Shire with many activities including morning teas, musical performances, tai chi, a bus trip and a Seniors Expo.

Hundreds of businesses registered as Council suppliers More than 200 suppliers of goods and services were registered as pre-qualified suppliers with Council, with 68 businesses from Douglas Shire approved and positioned to benefit directly from this initiative.

Click on the image above to see Pop-up Story Time in action

Local community organisations did an amazing job putting together such a stimulating program and Council is very pleased to support activities promoting wellbeing and social participation for our Shire’s residents.

In total, 207 businesses and contractors were accepted for the Register of Pre-Qualified Suppliers (RoPS) for Goods and Services to service Council’s wide-ranging operational activities for the next two years. The RoPS covers 58 business categories, ranging from mowing and building services to cleaning, irrigation and office equipment supplies.

This is in addition to the 56 businesses and contractors already registered with Council as pre-qualified suppliers for wet and dry hire of plant and machinery.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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Teamsters Park upgrade

TEAMSTERS PARK CYCLE TRACK BEFORE & AFTER Improvements continued at Teamsters Park in Craiglie, with a spillway and connecting bridge to the cycle track to Glengarry and the Bump track completed.

Rails were fitted to the structure and decomposed granite paths installed on the track and up to the bird hide around the wetland. Further improvements to the bird hide, wetland and general area are scheduled.

Amazing art experiences for young and old Douglas Arts Base (DAB) was able to offer subsidised art activities for pensioners and conduct after-hours art classes for children with funding from Council’s Community Support Program.

The Council-subsidised art activities enabled dozens of young and old artists to gain from expert tuition they otherwise would not have been able to access.

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Active Games in the Park

Council launched Active Games in the Park in August, providing a free activities program for kids after school for the remainder of 2015.

Active Games in the Park was held every Tuesday in Mossman at George Davis Park from 3.30pm-5.30pm and every Thursday in Port Douglas at Hutchinson Park from 3.30pm-5.30pm.

Dozens of children of all ages participated in the program, with parents also encouraged to join the activities.

AT A GLANCE ...

• The Thornton Beach waste water system upgrade was well underway with the major components installed. The waste water distribution area was also completed ready for operation.

• Council’s ‘Planner of the Day’ responded to 169 email enquiries to the town planning email enquiry inbox during July and August. Telephone enquiry numbers are not logged, but average 5-10 cold calls per day.

• The Mossman Parks Open Spaces crews continued with routine maintenance and the mulching program in Mossman with assistance from the Work for the Dole (W4TD) participants.

• The Mossman Library foyer became home to a display about the history of Mossman Hospital, kindly provided by the Douglas Shire Historical Society.

• Audio visual facilities were installed at the Mossman Depot to facilitate training events and other meetings held at the depot.

• The Authority Purchase Cards software module was implemented – an efficiency initiative to remove paper forms and facilitate the required accounting processes online.

• Macquarie University loaned the Environmental Health team scientific equipment to help monitor air quality and dust levels in response to public concerns relating to general air pollution.

• 112 First & Final Warning Notices were issued by Local Laws officers during August, and 130 information pamphlets handed out. Eight on-the-spot fines were issued. Generally the illegal camping patrols have showed signs of having an impact. The team has received positive feedback from the community regarding reduced camper numbers, and officers similarly have observed a reduction in illegal camping activity.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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September Financial result $4 million better than budgeted for Douglas Shire Council achieved a financial result almost $4 million better than budgeted for in its first full financial year of operations.

The final operating result for the 2014/15 financial year was an operating deficit of $1.099 million, which is almost $4 million less than the original budget forecast of a $5.068 million operating deficit.

Council attributed the almost 80 per cent improvement to revenue exceeding expectations including increased grant funding, increased development applications, increased investment interest returns, rates revenue, operating efficiencies and cost savings in materials and services.

National Citizenship Ceremony in paradise To celebrate National Citizenship Day on 17 September, Council held its first citizenship ceremony in Rex Smeal Park Port Douglas - arguably the most spectacular location a new citizen’s pledge to Australia has ever been declared.

Seventeen new citizens originally from places as culturally diverse as France, India, Sri Lanka, the United States, Italy, New Zealand, Croatia, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Poland took the pledge under the iconic fig tree with the spectacular Coral Sea as the backdrop.

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Douglas Shire popular with film and TV productions Douglas Shire Council provided invaluable support to Screen Queensland and television productions in the Douglas Shire in 2015.

Critically acclaimed popular ABC TV series The Code filmed throughout the Douglas Shire for three weeks in September with a crew of around 40 based here for the duration and many locals involved as extras.

A new Channel 7 series starring Rebecca Gibney and Steve Peacocke also spent several days filming the next instalment in and around Mossman in November.

Council supported both major productions by helping to identify suitable locations, liaising with producers to eliminate red tape and provide logistical support.

A number of new productions aiming to film in the Douglas Shire are in the pipeline for 2016 with the support of Council.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of potential film locations in the Douglas Shire

Coconut Management Plan adopted

Click on the image and see how Council’s Pest Management team deal with the destructive Miconia weed which has the potential to strangle our rainforest environments.

Douglas Shire Council has adopted a Coconut Management Plan and Action Plan to preserve and enhance the region’s spectacular natural environment.

The Coconut Management Plan provides Council with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced in order to preserve and enhance the contribution of coconut palms to the local economy and lifestyle.

Addressing issues such as hazard identification, risk assessment, palm distribution, environmental impact and the associated costs of coconut management, the Plan establishes a framework to implement and track the progress of Council’s coconut management for social, economic and environmental benefits.

Council gifts nursing home site to the Salvos The establishment of a nursing home in Mossman is close to a reality with Council resolving to transfer freehold title of the proposed site to The Salvation Army at no cost.

To further progress the construction of an aged care facility in Mossman, Council also submitted an application under Round One of the State Government’s Building Our Regions Fund for around $1 million for the construction of enabling infrastructure.

Council purchased the Johnston Road site in 2003 for the purpose of developing aged care facilities in Mossman. The Federal Government issued a 42-bed nursing home licence to the Salvation Army in 2014.

NDRRA progress continues Progress continues on Council’s $24 million National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) road repairs program.

Recent completed repairs include a gravel resheet on the Cape Tribulation-Bloomfield Road while the Whyanbeel Rd causeway replacement is taking shape.

More than 160 roads in the Douglas Shire are being repaired throughout the Douglas Shire under the NDRRA program, which is managed by Council and jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments to fix Council infrastructure damaged in natural disasters.

The majority of damage in the Douglas Shire was caused

by Cyclone Ita in April 2014.

Council helps in search for animal shelter location Council is undertaking a due diligence investigation into the purchase of a new proposed site for the Paws & Claws homeless animal shelter at Yule Point.

Council determined to conduct further investigations into the proposed site at Lot 84 Captain Cook Highway after extensive analyses of potential sites.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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Cassowary Valley revegetation project

Positive outcome for neglected animals

Revegetation works by the Open Spaces team to stabilise the creek bank at Cassowary Valley commenced in conjuction with the Green Army.

The Local Laws team helped re-home eight impounded dogs.

Douglas staff and Green Army volunteers planted 628 trees on Cassowary Creek as part of the revegetation project.

Council staff drug awareness sessions Organisational training has been a continuing focus for Council, with the training schedule including areas such as CPR and educational/awareness sessions on the drug ice and amphetamines.

Nurse Educator for the Department of Health’s Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs (ATODS) team, Shaun Cram, conducted the sessions which were attended by 88 Council officers.

Staff appreciated Shaun’s presentations and found the sessions to be extremely informative.

These information sessions complement the Wellness Initiative within the Governance section of the Operational Plan. Council is committed to partnering with organisations like ATODS so that our workforce can be fully educated on the risks to themselves and our Shire.

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Two of the dogs, a mum and her pup, were unkempt, malnourished and in poor condition when they were rescued by Council. After lots of love and care the dogs markedly improved, and are happy and social again, ready for a new life.

The Mareeba Animal Refuge also sent Douglas some positive news about a Jack Russell cross that Local Laws officers re-homed through the refuge. When the dog was impounded it was extremely frightened of people and other animals and appeared to have been neglected and abandoned. The refuge desexed and spent time socialising her before she was re-homed to a loving family where she is fitting in well and enjoying life.

Connecting to Country through art Mossman Library was the venue for the official opening of the St. Augustine’s Primary School Connecting to Country art exhibition, where art, culture and learning came together for Indigenous students.

School holiday activities were an opportunity to combine science, technology and the arts. Children enjoyed making reef dioramas, then using a “makey-makey” (or simple circuitry) were able to have dolphins making marine sounds.

Planners kept busy with large proposed developments

AT A GLANCE ...

Council’s Planning department assessed several large reconfiguration applications. These include recongifuring one lot into 19 lots at 12 Crawford Street, Mossman; one lot into 58 lots, which is Daintree Horizons Stages 4 and 7; and one lot into 72 lots on Vixies Road, Wonga Beach.

A significant application for an extension to the aquaculture prawn farm located on the Captain Cook Highway, Killaloe, was received. The application seeks to expand the existing operation and provide new administration and processing facilities, as well as a caretaker’s residence. The proposed expansion is seeking to increase capacity by approximately 50 per cent, with positive economic impacts for the local area, including the employment of an additional 11 staff.

• Council is participating in a fertiliser bag recycling trial program. The program is aimed at diverting single use fertiliser bags, particularly now being used in the cane farming industry, from landfill. A drop off station was established at the Killaloe Transfer Station and has already received numerous bags.

Georgia aces business course

• The bunded area for storage of hazardous waste at Killaloe Transfer Station was upgraded.

Georgia Graham from Council’s Organisational and Business Support Unit graduated with a Certificate III in Business Administration and was presented with her certificate by Liz Ross from Far North Training & Consultancy.

• Digital tablets for field officers to manage road defects, the Customer Request Management (CRM), and defect logging for the Infrastructure team, such as building issues and potholes were implemented by Information Technology team.

• The Queensland Audit Office (QAO) completed its audit and certification of Council’s general purpose financial statements for the 2014/15 financial year and issued an unmodified (unqualified) Independent Auditor’s Report.

• A safety inspection of Council pile moorings was conducted with a consultant, and a maintenance schedule prepared. A plan to retrieve three sunken boats in Dickson Inlet is also being investigated.

• Macquarie University loaned Council’s Environmental Health team scientific equipment to help monitor air quality and dust levels in response to public concerns relating to general air pollution. The equipment was used to examine Mossman and surrounding communities.

• Level 1 water restrictions were implemented on 11 September after the Rex Creek intake and other supply creek levels dropped significantly while simultaneously the consumption levels, in particular the Port Douglas/ Mossman scheme, increased.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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October Flagstaff Hill walking trail announced

National Citizenship Ceremony in paradise To celebrate National Citizenship Day on 17 September, Council held its first citizenship ceremony in Rex Smeal Park Port Douglas - arguably the most spectacular location a new citizen’s pledge to Australia has ever been declared.

Seventeen new citizens originally from places as culturally diverse as France, India, Sri Lanka, the United States, Italy, New Zealand, Croatia, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, South Africa and Poland took the pledge under the iconic fig tree with the spectacular Coral Sea as the backdrop.

A world-renowned trail-building company was chosen to develop concept designs for the proposed Flagstaff Hill walking trail. World Trail is a Cairns-based company which has designed and constructed walking and mountain bike trails around Australia and the world.

The Flagstaff Hill walking trail is destined to become a major tourist attraction for the Douglas Shire, offering breathtaking views from south of Port Douglas to Thornton’s Peak in the Daintree as well as the glistening Coral Sea to Low Isles and beyond.

It is expected the trail length will be between 1km-1.5km and provide for disabled access to viewing platforms, connecting the Port Douglas Waterfront to Four Mile Beach and incorporating the historic lighthouse on Island Point as well as key viewing points to Low Isles and north to the Daintree and Snapper Island.

Croc Trophy competitors roll into Port Douglas Douglas Shire Council continued its major sponsorship of the worldrenowned Croc Trophy in October 2015.

The Croc Trophy attracts some of the best mountain bike riders from around the world and Four Mile Beach featured as the finish of the gruelling ninestage challenge.

Race highlights of the world series race were screened around the world and many of the competitors and their supporters stayed on in the region to relax and unwind afterwards.

Council will continue its support of the Croc Trophy in 2016.

It is anticipated the concept designs will be completed by the end of 2015.

Council will then seek feedback from the community on the concept designs before a final trail design is finalised in early 2016 and construction begins.

Click on the image above to see a video clip of the worldrenowned 2015 Croc Trophy

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Council to introduce hot food at Port Douglas Markets

Disaster resilience education stalls

Council called for applications from hot food vendors to establish hot food stalls at the Port Douglas Sunday Markets.

Disaster resilience and education stalls were held in collaboration with the Mossman SES at the Mossman Family Fun Day, Mossman Markets, Woolworths, Mossman Newsagents and IGA Port Douglas.

The approved food stalls will be located in a “hot spot” adjacent to Rex Smeal Park on the eastern side of Market Park.

Council endorsed a recommendation to allow a limited number of hot food stalls at the world-famous markets to meet visitor needs and provide opportunities for suitable small business applicants to promote and develop a new economic initiative.

Vendors are required to demonstrate how their concepts will showcase our multicultural and tropical heritage and promote the use of local produce and must comply with food regulations.

Stalls included photos of local extreme weather events and a display home emergency kit as well as wallet-card Disaster Resilience USB giveaways and emergency fact sheets.

People could also undertake a selfevaluation about how prepared for disaster events their family is.

Women of Douglas Get Out, Get Active Mayor’s Christmas Appeal Mayor Julia Leu launched the 2015 Christmas Appeal for the Douglas Shire to help provide some festive cheer for local families who may be struggling financially.

As a result, almost 40 Christmas hampers were delivered to local families in need with an additional 20 food hampers provided for those falling outside the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal guidelines and 12 boxes of groceries, toys and small gift items given to the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre and the Mossman Community Centre for their emergency relief programs.

The Women of Douglas: Get Out Get Active series of Come and Try programs proved to be very successful with more than 100 participants taking part.

The activities on offer included yoga in Mossman, Diwan and Port Douglas, tai chi in Mossman and Port Douglas, high energy exercise in Mossman and Port Douglas and Steady Steps in Mossman and Port Douglas.

The activities were offered over an eight-week period with consistent participant numbers at each activity.

The tai chi in Port Douglas was so successful that the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre is continuing the program with Council support through the provision of the Port Douglas Community Hall.

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Fabulous Fun Palace a huge hit Libraries received a $2000 grant to host a “Fun Palace�.

The grant is funded by the State Library of Queensland OPAL Program. The State Library of Qld has embraced the Fun Palace concept which was originally established in the UK. Library staff were supported by Kel the Wacky Professor and approximately 400 people attended this fabulous event which was held at Mossman Markets on Saturday 3 October. The Fun Palace was an opportunity to provide the community with a fun, free, local event that celebrates science and the arts.

Mossman Library also hosted a travelling exhibition from the State Library of Queensland showcasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and stories as they are retold through animation. Our Dreaming: animating country enabled people of all ages to enjoy stories, animations and activities.

Lights, camera, action for Port Shorts Fun Palace events were held simultaneously around the world to encourage children to participate in science and art activities.

Douglas Shire Council was the Principal Sponsor of the Port Shorts Film Festival held on 23-24 October.

Port Shorts attracted more than 700 film enthusiasts over two big nights to watch 45 finalists vie for more than $15,000 in cash and prizes.

The festival also included filmmakers workshops and a forum hosted by judges and ambassadors, actor Stephen Curry, Wolf Creek producer Matt Hearn and screenwriter and ABC Far North radio host Kier Shorey.

Council has committed to supporting the Port Shorts Film Festival for the next three years.

Click on the image above to see the winning Port Shorts Best Local Film by Dean Miller 36

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

Daintree landslip repaired under NDRRA

2014-15 Annual Report adopted

Progress continued on National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) repairs to the road network in the Douglas Shire.

The 2014/15 Annual Report formally adopted by Council in October highlights the achievements of the new Council.

Extensive works were carried out on Upper Daintree Rd to repair a major landslip as a result of Cyclone Ita in April 2014.

The Annual Report for Council’s first full financial year of operations since deamalgamation also details the financial statements, endorsed by the Queensland Audit Office.

The $24 million NDRRA program, funded by the Federal and State Governments and managed by Douglas Shire Council, injected approximately $4 million into the local economy on accommodation, wages, fuel, material supply and plant hire alone.

Click on the Annual Report to see the results

AT A GLANCE ...

• The Thornton Beach toilet block wastewater system upgrade has been completed and the toilet block is now operational. The existing port-aloos were removed.

• Concept designs and site layout planning are underway for a new Cow Bay toilet block.

• An authorised Prevention & Control Program was approved for Douglas Shire regarding dengue fever management with Queensland Health in preparation for the wet season.

Click on the image and see Council’s Pest Management team fighting fire with fire as part of a Siam weed eradication controlled burn.

• There were 64 illegal dumping e-surveys completed and over 100 hard copy surveys completed by the community. This information will give Council a basis on which to build an anti-illegal dumping strategy.

• Leachate sampling and analysis was undertaken at Killaloe Landfill. Waste Services also completed the QWDS Quarterly Report and the Quarterly TEP Report for the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.

• The eplacement of outdated networking equipment and upgrade of links between Council sites in Mossman, including additional capacity to accommodate more users in the Mossman Depot & Nursery was completed by the Information Technology team.

GO DOUGLAS! CELEBRATING 2015

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November Inaugural Douglas Business Forum a huge success

economy.id tool provides valuable insights Did you know there are 1370 businesses registered in the Douglas Shire? Were you aware the Douglas Shire’s Gross Regional Product totalled $650 million in 2014?

Douglas Shire Council is encouraging local businesses to take advantage of the free resources available to them on Council’s website to maximise their opportunities, including the economy.id tool.

Council’s inaugural Douglas Business Forum held at QT Resort on 12 November was a huge success with more than 100 business delegates sharing ideas, exchanging knowledge and learning how to grow their business.

Keynote speakers from government and business provided valuable insights into Marketing and Tourism, Diversity and Innovation and Business Development and Investment.

Business delegates were able to ask questions of the panellists and keynote speakers to gain a greater understanding of the future direction of the local economy and how they can adapt their business to obtain the benefits.

Remembrance Day Douglas Shire Council and the Mossman RSL subbranch hosted the 97th observance of Remembrance Day at the Mossman Cenotaph on 11 November.

More than 100 people attended the service, with students from Mossman State High School providing a morning tea in Council Chambers afterwards.

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The economy.id tool provides local businesses with valuable insights into the Douglas Shire’s economic indicators to help businesses plan for the future. At the click of a mouse businesses can access the economic profile of the Douglas Shire, identify trends and analyse datasets relevant to their business.

Free Daintree ferry travel with Douglas Card From November to February, Council offers neighbouring shires the opportunity to apply for a Douglas Card which enables free travel on the Daintree Ferry.

Last year the total amount of Douglas Cards issued was 1232 and this year 528 cards have already been issued.

Tourism Port Douglas Daintree also produces a Douglas Card “specials” brochure, which is supported by Daintree-based operators with great offers available to Douglas Card holders.

Community Support Program 2015-16 Four fantastic local projects will be funded in 2015-16 under Council’s Community Support Program.

Council has approved more than $20,000 in funding under the CSP for 201516 to enable local organisations to deliver valuable community programs. The successful CSP applicants and projects for 2015-16 are: Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club Inc $1490 - for a three-day coaching clinic at the Club for members; Family Daycare Association Queensland Ltd $1670 - for Tropical North Family Day Care’s Kitchen Garden Club at Coronation Park, for parents and children; Douglas Shire Community Services Association Ltd $8432 - for their monthly Movies in Mossman project; and Port Douglas Community Services Network Inc $8960 - for youth- inclusive activities at the Centre.

Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival Council was a major sponsor of the 2015 Great Barrier Reef Marathon in November, providing $5000 cash and $5000 in-kind to help organisers run the event.

The Great Barrier Reef Marathon Festival attracted hundreds of athletes from around Australia and a number of overseas countries.

It also had an ultramarathon and number of shorter events and encouraged locals to adopt a healthy lifestyle by training and participating.

Fitbit Challenge provides plenty of benefits Special needs students from Mossman State High School reaped the benefits of an innovative fitness challenge by outdoor Council staff.

More than 20 Council staff took part in the “Fitbit Challenge” which used a Fitbit device to record the number of steps and kilometres they registered in their work and home life over a number of months.

Staff were encouraged to get sponsorship from the community to go towards their preferred not-for-profit organisation which Council would match with an in-kind donation. Judy Chamberlain from the Port Douglas Depot registered more than one million steps over 10 weeks to take out the challenge, with depot colleague Eli Pitt hot on her heels and raising the most in sponsorship. They both chose to donate their prize to Mossman State High School to help the special needs students create a new garden.

Thanks to Ian O’Donoghue for supplying earthmoving equipment and an operator free of charge.

Click on the image above to see Council’s Open Spaces team working on the new garden

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Inaugural White Ribbon Twilight Walk

Local Laws review

Council assisted the Mossman Elders Justice Group and other community agencies and services which organised the inaugural White Ribbon Twilight Walk down Front St, Mossman, on 25 November.

Council launched a survey to get feedback from the community as part of a Local Laws review.

The twilight walk encouraged our community to stand up and speak out against domestic violence and more than 300 people participated in the event, one of only a handful held in regional Queensland.

After marching down Front St with a a police escort, hundreds of people gathered to hear a number of guest speakers.

The hugely successful event appears likely to become a significant annual event in the Douglas Shire as men, women and children from all walks of life made a statement that violence against women will not be tolerated in our community.

On average, one woman is killed every week in Australia as a result of intimate partner violence.

The review of Council’s Local Laws commenced in June with an internal audit that identified errors, irrelevant sections and gaps in the current local laws.

Council is responsible for a range of local laws. The existing local laws remained in force in 2014 following deamalgamation from Cairns Regional Council.

It is important that the local laws remain relevant and effective over time and Council has commenced a review of the existing local laws for this purpose.

Any change to the local laws may impact on the community and Council wants to hear about your issues, concerns and ideas.

Bama Working Group Over the coming months the Bama Working Group (BWG) will be introducing training on Native Title, Indigenous Land Use Agreements, conducting the scheduled review of the Blue Pools Management Agreement, inviting Indigenous consultation regarding the design of the Mossman Aged Care Facilities, developing Welcome to Country signage, conducting Indigenous consultation (along with broader community consultation) on the proposed Flagstaff Hill Walking Track, seeking guidance on the proposed Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails, Mossman Gorge Walking Tracks, the Mossman Gorge Cemetery and to finalise the Bloomfield Track Drive project.

With the recent move of Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation back to Mossman, Council staff are able to more easily meet to jointly manage a variety of projects.

Other stakeholders, including the Wet Tropics Management Authority, will be invited to participate as appropriate. Staff are also working with Yirrganydji Traditional Owners and others on projects “on country” within the Douglas Shire.

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Daintree waste matters

Event funding bonanza

Council resolved not to proceed with a proposal to provide a mandatory general waste kerbside collection service for identified properties between Forest Creek Rd and Emmagen Creek based on feedback from ratepayers and residents.

Council signed off on more than $40,000 in financial and in-kind support for a range of exciting local events planned for the next 12 months.

Extensive consultation was undertaken by Council with ratepayers and residents north of the Daintree River.

Consultation included a mail-out survey to 200 properties accessible for kerbside collection and 97 properties not accessible.

Of the properties accessible for kerbside collection, 5 per cent wanted kerbside collection, 37 per cent did not want kerbside collection and 58 per cent did not respond.

Council will conduct further investigations into options for waste disposal for commercial properties in Cape Tribulation to alleviate pressure on the Cow Bay Transfer Station, along with methods to make waste management at the transfer station more sustainable.

Council will also look into recycling options for Daintree residents because although waste disposal data identifies poor recycling rates from north of the Daintree River, consultation has identified this may be due to inconvenience and a lack of incentive to recycle.

Click on the image and see Council’s Pest Management team doing their best to prevent the destructive Hiptage weed from infesting our pristine rainforest environment.

Council will continue its support as a major sponsor of the Port Douglas Beach Picnic Races and Taste Port Douglas in 2016 with $10,000 in funding to be provided for each event.

Council will also provide $8000 to support the Mossman Sugar Festival in 2016 which will be expanded to three days with a great line-up of community events and is scheduled for October.

Community group Port Kids Incorporated received just over $3000 to stage the community fun day in September 2016 which promises a huge line-up of family-orientated and health-focused activities.

The Port Douglas Community Services Network Incorporated was granted almost $2300 for an innovative promotion at a Port Douglas Crocs game in May 2016 where players will wear pink uniforms and play with pink footballs as a fundraiser for local cancer support organisation Pink In The Tropics.

The Port Shorts Film Festival will also receive $8000 annually over the next three years to support local filmmakers and promote the Douglas Shire to film enthusiasts around Australia.

Storm Tide Cyclone Shelter training Four Council staff completed training in the Management of Cyclone Shelters in Cairns. This training will be followed up by a half-day hands-on session in the Port Douglas Storm Tide Cyclone Shelter.

Recent improvements were made to the cyclone shelter as a result of feedback from staff and a review undertaken of the Operational Guidelines for the shelter.

Whilst some improvements were structural there is also now a commitment of other (State) agency staff for the formation of cyclone shelter management teams. Fly-in Teams have also been trained for forward deployment to areas where staffing is required.

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Marine life magic with new causeways Marine life were just as delighted as residents of the Degarra community in the far northern reaches of the Douglas Shire with the new Banabilla causeways project.

Local company Kenmac Constructions completed the dual causeways project which substantially improves access to the Degarra community and also enables marine life to reach previously inaccessible tributaries.

Previously Degarra residents were regularly isolated due to the low level of the old causeways and marine life was blocked.

An added environmental benefit of the two new causeways is the ability of marine life to pass through them.

Although the new causeways were only completein November, sharks, stingrays and even a two-metre groper have been observed relishing their new freedom already.

To see a stingray and other key marine species being able to access parts of the river system that were previously off-limits is a great example of how we as a Council can benefit the environment by design.

AT A GLANCE ...

• The first5forever program run by Douglas Libraries was launched with a Picnic in the Library and free morning tea. The first5forever program is an initiative of the State Library of Queensland and the Queensland Government to improve outcomes for all children by supporting parents in early literacy and oral language development for children under five years of age.

• Three Regulatory Services officers attained accredited swimming pool inspector qualifications to help monitor non-compliant swimming pool fences and investigate swimming pool immersions.

• Council participated in the North Queensland Economic Summit in Cairns by hosting a stall. The ‘Invest in Paradise’ brochure was developed and distributed among the hundreds of international delegates.

• Applications closed for Hot Food at the Port Douglas Markets. In total 14 applications were received, and two late submissions. A working group of staff comprising of Governance and Environment Health assessed the applications to ensure they are compliant with all Food Safety Criteria.

A report will be presented to Council in December outlining the options available.

• An $800 “Ozobot grant” was received by Douglas Libraries from the State Library of Queensland. Staff attended a workshop in Cairns on ozobots and the grant funding will be utilised to provide school holiday programming.

• An illegal camper at Four Mile Beach suffering from depression was spoken to by our Local Laws officers who helped him set up an appointment at the local medical centre. Douglas officers recognise that not all illegal camping is by choice.

• Guardian Disaster Management Software was installed by the Information Technology team for use in Council’s Local Disaster Management Centre (LDCC). The core purpose of the system is managing the coordination of task and information during and post natural disaster events. The system also is integrated with the State system allowing information flow and can be pre-populated e.g. for Request for Assistance. Guardian Roads is also installed allowing an interface to show road conditions to the general public.

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December Business gets a boost from Council

Community Christmas trees Council created Community Christmas trees in Anzac Park in Port Douglas and next to the Post Office in Mossman.

Each tree boasts more than 5000 lights and 100 decorations to help foster the Christmas spirit in our communities.

The Community Christmas Tree project would not be possible without the support of Gavin and Alice Kelly of Kelly’s Crane Hire who generously donate their services and machinery to put up and take down the Christmas lights and decorations.

Council officially launched a new Business Development Fund to provide opportunities to the business and not-for-profit sector to support the growth of local business and industry in the Douglas Shire.

Local businesses and not-for-profit organisations are invited to apply for up to $10,000 in funding to develop projects which encourage commercial investment in the Douglas Shire, expand tourism and agricultural business opportunities and benefits through collaborative planning and promotion and investigate opportunities for sports and cultural tourism.

Christmas in the Park

Council provided $6000 cash and in-kind assistance to the Douglas Shire Community Services Association to stage Christmas in the Park festivities in Mossman’s George Davis Park.

Christmas in the Park provides a great line-up of free family activities to celebrate the festive season and was followed by Carols By Candlelight.

New Year’s Eve in Port Douglas Council is the major sponsor of New Year’s Eve fireworks, providing $3000 and in-kind support to the Douglas Chamber of Commerce to stage the fireworks spectacular in Anzac Park.

Council has provided an additional $3000 to the Chamber in 2015 to create a free family-friendly entertainment precinct in Market Park from 4pm-7pm on New Year’s Eve. There will be a range of activities for families to enjoy including games and activities, face painting, a magic show and street performers.

Fireworks demonstrations will take place in Anzac Park at 8.30pm and midnight.

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go douglas 2015!

To wrap up a fantastic year, click on the images below to see videos outlining some of the achievements of our committed Council teams in 2015. We’re looking forward to another fabulous year working with our Douglas Shire communities in 2016.

#godouglasshire

DEVELOPMENT & ENVIRONMENT

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DOUGLAS LIBRARIES